insulinfølsomheten

Insulinfølsomheten, or insulin sensitivity, refers to how effectively the body's cells respond to the hormone insulin. Insulin is a key regulator of blood glucose levels, produced by the pancreas. Its primary role is to signal cells, particularly muscle, fat, and liver cells, to take up glucose from the bloodstream for energy or storage. When insulin sensitivity is high, cells readily respond to insulin, leading to efficient glucose uptake and lower blood sugar levels.

Conversely, low insulin sensitivity, also known as insulin resistance, means that cells do not respond as well to insulin's signal. This requires the pancreas to produce more insulin to achieve the same effect of lowering blood glucose. Over time, chronic insulin resistance can lead to elevated blood sugar levels and is a significant risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. Factors influencing insulin sensitivity include genetics, body weight, physical activity levels, diet, and sleep patterns. Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and a balanced diet are crucial for optimizing insulin sensitivity.